Mercedes-Benz is breaking new ground in self-driving technology with a distinctive addition to their vehicles.
In the realm of car lights, typically dominated by white, red, and amber, Mercedes has gained approval to introduce a fourth color: turquoise blue.
This innovative hue serves a unique purpose, signaling when a Mercedes car is autonomously navigating the roads.
Currently, only California and Nevada permit the use of this new light color, aligning with the legality of Mercedes’ “conditionally autonomous” Drive Pilot technology.
This system is designed for traffic jams on specific major highways, allowing the vehicle to operate at speeds below 40 miles per hour.
Notably, under these conditions, the driver can lift their feet off the pedals, release the steering wheel, and, distinctively, divert their attention away from the road.
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Unlike other driver assistance systems, such as Tesla’s Full Self-Driving and General Motors’ Super Cruise, Mercedes’ Drive Pilot permits continuous distraction until the system prompts the driver to regain control, such as in speeding-up traffic situations.
During this period, drivers can engage in activities like surfing the Internet or playing games on the car’s central screen, with built-in sensors preventing the driver from falling asleep.
The choice of light blue for the autonomous driving indication serves both practical and safety purposes.
The color is deliberately eye-catching, ensuring it stands out without confusion.
Importantly, it differs from the hues of lights found on other passenger vehicles and is distinct from the darker blue used by emergency vehicles like police cars.
While the Society of Automotive Engineers recommends this specific shade of blue for denoting autonomous vehicle operation, Mercedes is the pioneering automaker to secure approval for its use.
Positioned around the taillights and headlights, these turquoise lights play a critical role in alerting nearby drivers and law enforcement that the vehicle is under fully automated control, preemptively dispelling any concerns about the driver’s engagement.
Mercedes plans to roll out the Drive Pilot system, complete with the turquoise lights, on S-class and EQS models in California and Nevada from early 2024 onwards.
However, it’s important to note that the technology’s functionality will be restricted to the highways of these two states, highlighting the ongoing evolution and regional implementation of autonomous driving features.
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